Tags – Tools to Support Collaboration
It’s well acknowledged that working as a team is productive.
For example, working alongside others cohesively gets the very best out of everyone.
By working towards a common goal, collaborators can pool ideas and motivate and support each other.
However, anyone who’s ever worked as part of a team will know that life isn’t always that simple. For instance, even the tightest of teams can have cracks develop due to basic human nature.
Of course, conflict is going to happen. So, how do you ensure you minimise the negatives and promote the positives in your team? Here are 5 methods and tools which will help:
1. Support & Inclusivity
Feeling included and valued will encourage staff to be more invested.
For example, if a member of your team is encouraged to contribute in a brainstorming session, they will feel included.
Similarly, if that contribution is applauded and given due credit, they will also feel valued.
Not only motivating, being perceived as a valued member of the team will encourage teamwork.
2. Time Tracking
Although it might seem counterproductive to track the time it takes to carry out a task, it can work well.
Free to use a time tracking program, Toggl is a great digital tool to use for this purpose.
If you know how long a task takes, you will be more able to share work out fairly.
Consequently, the resulting sense of balance and fairness will add to your team’s positivity and prevent any resentment.
3. Project Management Program
Using one of these many programs available, such as Trello or Monday are great tools for supporting collaborative working on any project.
Moreover, project management programs allow transparency and visibility on where everyone is on a project.
Equally, these digital tools not only promote teamwork but productivity too.
4. Team Building Workshops and Activities
Although it might seem a cliché to organise something like raft building as a team building activity, it genuinely works!
As such, focusing on a collective project as equals engenders feelings of camaraderie.
Similarly, getting the whole team together for a creative activity, dispensing with seniority and any hierarchy will promote inclusivity.
Additionally, by making it a fun project too, your team will bond and get to know each other better.
5. Continuous Improvement
Whilst all members of a team have their role, supporting them in developing and evolving is crucial.
Furthermore, staff will support the team more if they feel supported themselves which leads to greater productivity.
360 Degree Feedback is another way in order to develop your team professionally.
This involves giving feedback about all your team, whether senior or junior in position.
Although feedback can be sometimes unwelcome, constructive feedback can only be positive.
Moreover, feedback on colleagues’ strengths and weaknesses will not only develop them individually but as a team too.
To learn more, get in touch with us today. In the meantime, please check our HR Consultancy Birmingham service.